Introduction
In this insightful episode, Nathan Walker speaks with Daniel Lycett, Head of Physical Education at St David’s College in North Wales. Dan reflects on a career that began in the state sector over 20 years ago, through to his current innovative work in a specialist setting. Having trained with little intention of staying in education, he found purpose and fulfilment in shaping more meaningful PE experiences for young people, particularly those with additional learning needs like dyslexia, ADHD, and dyspraxia.
Evolving Philosophy of PE
Dan discusses a transformative moment in his career when he realised traditional PE, focused on performance and drills, was marginalising the students who needed it most. He shifted his philosophy to make PE inclusive, valuing physical literacy, engagement, and accessibility over competitive success. For Dan, PE is not just about sport; it’s about helping students find joy and meaning in movement.
From Direct Instruction to Learner Agency
Lockdown was a catalyst for change. With students isolated, Dan explored ecological dynamics and self-determination theory to foster autonomy. He restructured lessons to focus on creating environments that promote decision-making, creativity, and problem-solving. Students now co-design their learning, exploring both familiar and novel activities like handball or kabaddi through games-based approaches.
Curriculum Redesign at St David’s
St David’s PE curriculum is built around three key strands: skill development (‘Donor’ sessions), traditional games adapted for inclusivity, and physical literacy through movement (e.g. swimming and functional movement). Students learn through play, adapt to constraints, and are empowered to reflect and improve. Success is measured in engagement, not just results.
Impact and Learner Perception
After a decade of innovation, Dan sees a clear cultural shift. Student engagement in PE has grown significantly, with increased uptake in Level 2 and 3 qualifications. Learners now view PE as meaningful and accessible, and staff foster emotionally supportive environments where feedback and vulnerability fuel progress.
The Origin of “Pizza and Swim” CPD
This unique CPD initiative, affectionately dubbed “Pizza and Swim”, emerged during the COVID-19 lockdown. Initially, it involved informal Zoom discussions among educators and experts across different fields. These early conversations weren’t rooted in theory but stemmed from curiosity and practice. Participants later realised that many of the concepts they were using, such as Self-Determination Theory, already had academic labels. Following the success of the virtual format, the group committed to hosting face-to-face events as lockdown eased, with the first in-person “Pizza and Swim” happening four years ago.
A Culture of Sharing and Challenge
What sets “Pizza and Swim” apart is its casual, inclusive nature – it’s free, community-driven, and includes an actual swim and shared pizza. More than a quirky concept, it represents a philosophy of co-creation, peer validation, and shared exploration. It’s a platform for open professional dialogue where educators from various contexts (PE teachers, academic researchers, club coaches) interact, challenge, and support each other.
Crucially, Dan highlights the importance of bringing in voices from outside traditional PE to help break the potential echo chamber that can exist within physical education. The conversations stretch thinking and reshape pedagogy, helping teachers apply fresh ideas directly to their practice.
Rethinking Physical Education
Dan critiques how current systems, particularly GCSEs and Level 2 qualifications, can misrepresent the purpose of physical education. He argues for removing or rethinking these formal qualifications in favour of more meaningful experiences, tailored to student engagement rather than abstract knowledge.
Instead, the vision is a student-led, inclusive model of PE where sixth-form students co-create and support younger learners through a coach development pathway. This cycle builds confidence, autonomy, and connection throughout the school.
Core Messages and Mantras
- Mantra: Focus on the next step, not just the end goal. Build solid foundations, and outcomes will follow.
- Advice for new teachers: Embrace messiness, experiment with practice design, and learn from coaching in diverse contexts.
- If PE should be one word: Something – PE should mean something personal to every student.
The podcast exemplifies innovation, humility, and a genuine commitment to making physical education more human, meaningful, and collaborative.
About the Guest
This episode is a conversation with Daniel Lycett. Dan is head of PE at St David’s College, Llandudno.
Listen
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